Upon learning of the snub, Slap Shots was told that this wasn't the first time Crosby, who last year declined to appear on NBC's "Today" show following Pittsburgh's Stanley Cup victory, had rejected a request from Letterman's "Late Show."

We only can imagine the demands on Crosby's time. Yet, in the days that hockey was front-page and back- page material after Canada gold, U.S. silver in overtime attracted more television viewers in the States than any game since the Lake Placid Miracle in 1980, it's difficult to understand why the NHL's most recognizable player and ambassador refused to spread the gospel.

Well, it's not that difficult. But it is a bummer. So, from the home office in Cole Harbour, here are The Top 10 Reasons Sidney Crosby Declined the Letterman Invitation:

Pittsburgh Penguins GM Ray Shero doesn't think it was fair Sidney Crosby received criticism after declining an opportunity to appear on the "Late Show with David Letterman."

The New York Post ran a story Sunday questioning Crosby's decision to turn down an invitation to read the show's Top 10 list during a stop in New York last week. The column ran under the headline: "Crosby blows NHL's golden chance."